Darkest Hour (2017), directed by Joe Wright, is a gripping historical drama about one of the most crucial moments in British history. With Gary Oldman’s transformative performance as Winston Churchill, the film explores the political and emotional challenges during the early days of World War II.
Detailed Summary
The Political Upheaval
The movie begins in May 1940, with Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain resigning after losing the confidence of Parliament. Winston Churchill, controversial and not particularly beloved, is chosen as his replacement despite opposition from within his own party. This sets the stage for a tense political drama where Churchill must navigate not only the threat of Nazi Germany but also resistance within his own government.
The Dunkirk Crisis
Churchill takes office just as the British army faces disaster in France. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers are trapped at Dunkirk, with German forces closing in. His War Cabinet, especially Viscount Halifax, urges him to negotiate peace with Hitler through Mussolini as a mediator. Churchill, however, refuses to consider surrender and insists on fighting, though privately he feels the weight of immense responsibility.
Churchill’s Struggles and Doubts
The film humanizes Churchill by showing his flaws, insecurities, and emotional breakdowns. He is depicted as a man constantly doubting himself, aware of the staggering odds against Britain. The tension between his determination to fight and the pressure to negotiate peace becomes the film’s emotional center.
The Subway Scene
One of the most talked-about scenes is Churchill riding the London Underground and speaking with everyday citizens. Though fictionalized, this moment symbolizes Churchill reconnecting with the people and gaining reassurance that the public would rather fight than surrender. Their support fuels his resolve to resist Nazi Germany at all costs.
The Turning Point in Parliament
The climax arrives when Churchill delivers his famous speech in Parliament: “We shall fight on the beaches…” This is not just a rallying cry but also his final act of defiance against the doubters in his own Cabinet. By passionately declaring that Britain will never surrender, he secures both the support of Parliament and the British people.
⇢ VIRAL RIGHT NOW
Movie Ending
The film ends with Churchill’s triumphant speech in the House of Commons on June 4, 1940. As his voice echoes through Parliament, the MPs erupt in applause, and even his political enemies recognize the strength of his leadership. The closing moments show him fully stepping into his role as the indomitable leader Britain needed, at the very moment when the nation was on the brink of collapse. The audience is left with the knowledge that this speech marked the turning point in Britain’s resolve during World War II.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, Darkest Hour does not include any post-credits scenes. Once the credits roll, the story is considered complete, with the emphasis firmly on Churchill’s defining moment.
Type of Movie
This is a historical drama/biographical film, with strong elements of political thriller. Its focus is on character, dialogue, and atmosphere rather than action, though the stakes are as high as any war film.
Cast
- Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill
- Kristin Scott Thomas as Clementine Churchill
- Ben Mendelsohn as King George VI
- Lily James as Elizabeth Layton
- Stephen Dillane as Viscount Halifax
- Ronald Pickup as Neville Chamberlain
Film Music and Composer
The score was composed by Dario Marianelli, who previously collaborated with Joe Wright on films like Atonement and Pride & Prejudice. The music is both sweeping and tense, mirroring Churchill’s inner turmoil and the urgency of the wartime situation.
⇢ KEEP UP WITH THE TREND
Filming Locations
Filming took place in England, with key locations including:
- Bovingdon Airfield, Hertfordshire – recreated Dunkirk evacuation sequences.
- Chartwell House – Churchill’s family home.
- Houses of Parliament sets at Shepperton Studios – meticulously reconstructed for the political debates.
These settings add authenticity and a sense of grandeur, placing viewers in the heart of Britain during the war’s darkest days.
Awards and Nominations
Darkest Hour received widespread acclaim and numerous accolades:
- Won 2 Academy Awards: Best Actor (Gary Oldman) and Best Makeup & Hairstyling.
- Nominated for 4 more Oscars: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Production Design.
- Gary Oldman also won the Golden Globe and BAFTA Award for Best Actor.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Gary Oldman spent over 200 hours in the makeup chair to transform into Churchill.
- Oldman smoked more than 400 cigars during filming, valued at around $30,000 in total.
- Joe Wright insisted on a claustrophobic visual style, often shooting in tight interiors to emphasize Churchill’s isolation.
- The iconic Underground scene was completely fictional but written to symbolize Churchill’s bond with the public.
Inspirations and References
The film draws directly from historical accounts of Churchill’s first weeks as Prime Minister and his speeches. Its screenplay was inspired by Anthony McCarten’s interest in pivotal leadership decisions that altered world history.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
No alternate endings have been revealed, though some deleted scenes focused on more of Churchill’s interactions with his staff and family. The theatrical cut intentionally streamlines the story to focus on his political struggle.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The movie is not based on a single book but on historical research and memoirs. Anthony McCarten later published a companion book, Darkest Hour: How Churchill Brought England Back from the Brink, expanding on the real history behind the film.
⇢ MOST SHARED RIGHT NOW
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Churchill’s first meeting with King George VI, filled with tension and doubt.
- Churchill dictating speeches to his secretary Elizabeth Layton late into the night.
- The War Cabinet debates over peace versus resistance.
- The Underground scene with London citizens.
- Churchill’s climactic “We shall fight on the beaches” speech in Parliament.
Iconic Quotes
- “I am not a lion, but it fell to me to give the lion’s roar.”
- “You cannot reason with a tiger when your head is in its mouth.”
- “We shall fight on the beaches. We shall fight on the landing grounds. We shall fight in the fields and in the streets… We shall never surrender.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film pays visual homage to The King’s Speech (2010), which depicted King George VI during the same period.
- Churchill’s use of the underground is symbolic of democracy: he descends to the people’s level.
- The lighting throughout the movie often frames Churchill in shadow, symbolizing the uncertainty of Britain’s future.
Trivia
- Gary Oldman avoided alcohol during filming to keep his performance sharp, though Churchill was known for heavy drinking.
- Kristin Scott Thomas had input into Clementine Churchill’s wardrobe, insisting on authenticity.
- The movie was shot in just 54 days.
- Gary Oldman initially turned down the role, fearing the physical transformation would be too demanding.
Why Watch?
Darkest Hour is not just a history lesson—it’s a tense, emotional, and deeply human story of leadership under fire. It offers a powerful performance from Gary Oldman, stunning visuals, and a look at how words can be as powerful as weapons.
Director’s Other Movies
- Atonement (2007)
- Pride & Prejudice (2005)
- Hanna (2011)
- Anna Karenina (2012)
